Operating a Nest thermostat is one of the best ways to optimize the day-to-day schedule of your comfort system. This smart thermostat can learn your preferences and automatically make adjustments. But as you might expect, it won’t work correctly or at all if you see an error code show up. The precise error code supplies useful information about the source of the problem, something a knowledgeable technician can use to provide solutions that much faster.
Here are seven of the most common error codes you may discover on your Nest thermostat. We’ll walk you through the basics of each error code on top of how you could fix it and the approximate cost to do so. Keep in mind that while the costs will ultimately depend on the specific Nest model, you can count on paying about $75-$200 for repairs. This should include travel and labor costs on top of any specific parts necessary to finish repairs.
e298 – Critical
This critical error code is limited to new models of the Nest thermostat and shows up when the power is shut off. Since this is a critical power error, the thermostat will change to the backup battery system. The error message will remain on the screen until the issue is fixed.
Losing power to your Nest thermostat can be for several reasons. The wiring might have disconnected or become damaged, or a disconnection may have appeared further along in your home’s electrical system. This could be the circuit breaker, fuse box or system switch. A knowledgeable technician should examine electrical connections and wiring until they find the source of the problem.
e294 – Critical
Critical error code e294 is displayed when your Nest thermostat’s wiring needs to be reconfigured. More specifically, the technician will need to reconfigure the R wire. They’ll first perform a factory reset of your thermostat to ensure it’s not just a software error. If that doesn’t work, they’ll examine the wiring diagram of the thermostat and begin checking connectors.
They’ll shut off the power and slowly inspect each wire, making sure they are fully inserted into the connector with the correct amount of uncovered copper. After they find the damaged connector, it can be exchanged for a new one.
e195 – Critical
This critical error code can appear when the weather outside is particularly hot. The HVAC system can break down and stop giving power to your Nest thermostat. When this problem persists, the backup battery in your thermostat drains and the thermostat will subsequently power down. Assuming the breakers are on, you can examine a handful of other places before consulting a professional technician.
As this error can deplete your thermostat’s battery, the first step could be providing enough power to find out if this specific error code is what you’re facing. You can detach the thermostat from its base and deliver power with a USB cable. If it displays error code 195, you can continue to visually examine components including the wiring as well as your air conditioner’s air filter or drainage system. If you struggle to uncover anything wrong with these components, it will likely be best to contact a pro.
e103 – Critical
Another critical error code, e103 indicates an electrical error with your Nest thermostat. More specifically, e103 will refer to an overcurrent problem, which means the wiring is experiencing more power than necessary. This may stem from the breaker box, an error from the control board or because of a bad connection in the thermostat. A technician can carefully investigate and test the Nest’s electrical system to figure out where the power is surging or why the thermostat is convinced there’s an overcurrent problem.
n260
Although this error code isn’t critical, it may still keep you from using the Nest thermostat how you want to. Error code n260 concerns the lack of a C wire or Nest Power Connector, as not having one can block your Nest from receiving sufficient power. You can examine the Nest’s C connector for the presence of a C wire and adapt the wiring itself if there is. If not, you’ll need a Nest Power Connector.
Due to installation of a Nest Power Connector, you might notice error code E297 be displayed. This can be remedied by updating your thermostat in Settings -> Software -> Update. If the Power Connector is already installed, you’ll instead be required to update the wiring info in the app from Settings -> Thermostat -> Wiring -> Update wiring.
e104 – Critical
Similar to error code e103, e104 is a critical error stemming from an overcurrent. If excessive power is being delivered using the Nest’s wiring, it may damage internal components and could even be a fire hazard. If you see this error code pop up on your Nest thermostat and want to guard against electrical damage, it’s a good idea to shut the power off as soon as you can. You can then get a hold of a professional technician with the appropriate experience diagnosing and fixing electrical damage.
e73 – Critical
When your thermostat displays error code e73, it signifies that the Rc wire is not receiving power.
This will sometimes be as simple as the breaker being shut off, but it can also be something with the wiring. After turning off the power to your HVAC system and thermostat, you can visually inspect the wires to make sure none of them are loose or damaged. If nothing appears to be out of place, it’s best to contact a local professional.